With walking routes galore and a range of dog-friendly accommodation, Dorset has always been a welcoming holiday destination for dog owners. Why not repay the hospitality by ensuring that you behave responsibly with your pet? Here’s a few tips to keep in mind when visiting Dorset.
DO… Clean Up After Them

Just as you would at home, you should always pick up after your pet and deposit their waste in an appropriate bin, whether you’re out exploring the countryside or simply walking them in the area around your dog-friendly accommodation. Dorset is known for its natural beauty, so do your bit to keep it looking nice.

DON’T… Let Them Chase Animals

As always, you should keep your dog under control when cattle, sheep or other farm animals are nearby. Dorset’s heathlands are also home to a number of ground-nesting birds, including woodlarks, stonechats and Dartford warblers, which you should ensure are not disturbed by your pet.

It’s not just harm to other animals that you need to worry about if they stray, either – ticks latching onto your dog are extremely unpleasant, and if they’re bitten by an adder, the UK’s only venomous snake, it could be life-threatening.

DO… Keep Them Cool

Dogs overheat easily in the warmer months, which can be deadly. Be sure not to over-exert them, and ensure that they have plenty of water available.

You also need to avoid leaving them trapped in places that might get too hot. Of course, we all know not to keep them locked in cars, but they could even suffer if left alone in dog-friendly accommodation. Dorset can get very warm in summer, and animals aren’t able to cool themselves down as easily as people.

DON’T… Let Them Bother Other People

Many of us love dogs, but others are not so keen. No matter where you are, you shouldn’t assume that everyone is happy to be approached by your pet unless they’ve shown/said otherwise.

You should also be considerate of people staying near your dog-friendly accommodation. Dorset is a top destination for holidays, and others want to enjoy their break just as much as you do – which means that they may not want to be treated to the sound of barking all day long, or have your hound jumping all over them when they’re trying to relax outside.

DO… Pay Attention to Your Surroundings

The best way to keep your dog – and yourself – safe is to be aware of your surroundings. In particular, take note of any signs put up for your benefit, because while Dorset’s coastal scenery is gorgeous, you should still bear in mind the potential hazards of cliff edges, dangerous tides and so on. Stay aware of where you are and act appropriately.

DON’T… Let Them Out of Your Sight

If you don’t know where your dog is, you can’t be sure of what they’re doing, which means that they could be breaking any of the rules above or getting into even worse trouble. Keep them within view at all times so that you know what’s happening. Just keep these guidelines in mind and you’re sure to have a good time, whether you’re out on walks or relaxing in your dog-friendly accommodation. Dorset is a brilliant holiday destination for you and your canine companion, so keep safe and have fun!

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Michael Paul is the Managing Director of Michael Paul Holidays, a holiday property agency offering a handpicked range of accommodation in wonderful UK locations. Whether you are looking for family getaways, romantic escapes or dog friendly accommodation, Dorset is often at the top of Michael’s recommendation list. He and his team will find you that perfect property for an unforgettable trip.

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When you’re planning a holiday with the family pet, it’s vital to find the right dog-friendly accommodation. Dorset boasts plenty of places to stay, but one of the best is undoubtedly the fantastic Highlands End Holiday Park, which has all of the amenities that you’ll need to make the most of a break with man’s best friend.
Whether you’d prefer a comfortable caravan, luxurious lodge or well-appointed apartment, this resort can provide you with appropriate dog-friendly accommodation. Dorset and its many attractions are easily accessible from its convenient location, set upon the famous Jurassic Coast.

On-Site Amenities

Highlands End has a range of great amenities to match its variety of dog-friendly accommodation. Dorset and its sweeping vistas will make you want to let your dog roam free, and you can indulge that desire without worry here – there’s a large, enclosed exercise field in which you can let your pooch run wild without any concern of them straying too far.

The on-site shop is also fantastic for dog owners, with dog food and treats available whenever you might need to buy some. And if you choose to stay in one of the great lodges here, a dog bed is already provided, so there’s no need to bring one along with you.

Places to Go

There are plenty of places to visit from your home base in Highlands End’s dog-friendly accommodation. Dorset is famous for its beautiful countryside and incredible coastline, with a range of clifftop routes and gorgeous beaches to explore.

The resort is just 500m from Eype Beach, a striking stretch of pebbly coastline that’s the perfect place for a seaside stroll at any time of day. You also have easy access to the South West Coast Path, allowing you to hike as far along the stunning Jurassic Coast as you want, travelling across its cliffs and beaches with your canine companion in tow. West Bay near Bridport is within easy reach along this path, and further along you’ll find the shingly Chesil Beach, which is great for a lengthier stroll. A challenging trek in the other direction takes you to Golden Cap, the highest point on the Jurassic Coast – perfect for taking in the views, not to mention tiring out your pet!

Rules of the Resort

Of course, there are some rules regarding dogs on the resort to ensure that everyone has a good time. Dogs have to be kept on a lead at all times within the holiday park, except in the special exercise area. It goes without saying that you should clear up any dog waste while on site, disposing of it in the provided bins.

You can bring a maximum of two dogs per accommodation, and they’re not to be left unattended in the holiday park. Of course, you should never leave them alone in the car for long periods of time either, whether you’re on site or not.

It’s also worth remembering that, while the county has a range of beautiful beaches to visit, you should check beforehand if dogs are permitted and whether there are any restrictions at particular times of year. To make the most of a holiday with your hound, you can’t beat Highlands End’s dog-friendly accommodation. Dorset is just waiting for you and your dog to explore – don’t miss out!

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Michael Paul is the Managing Director of Michael Paul Holidays, a holiday property agency offering a handpicked range of accommodation in wonderful UK locations. Whether you are looking for family getaways, romantic escapes or dog friendly accommodation, Dorset is often at the top of Michael’s recommendation list. He and his team will find you that perfect property for an unforgettable trip.

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Bombing down the slopes in a t-shirt and sunglasses. Stopping for a cold beer at the foot of a run. Beautiful vibrant scenery and relaxed, balmy après-ski – late-season skiing is a real delight! Let’s talk about the best resorts for late-season getaways and some of our favourite catered and self-catered ski chalets!
Val Thorens

With 99% of its runs above 2000m, Val Thorens is the highest resort in Europe. And with over 600km of runs, it’s also the largest ski resort in the world! While its height can sometimes lead to harsh conditions in winter, it also means that you’re bound to have decent snow coverage until season’s end.

Val Thorens is also among the best locations for lively après-ski, with a wide range of bars, restaurants and even nightclubs. What’s more, it provides a sports centre, with gym, pool, saunas, steam room, hot tubs and a leisure centre, as well as a bowling alley and a pool table – perfect for relaxing with friends after punishing off-piste expeditions.

Stay Here …

The self-catered ski chalet at Galerie de Peclet 1 is only 200m away from the piste and offers sofas, a TV and a lounge area alongside sleeping provisions for up to six people.

Val d’Isere and Tignes

Combining to form the massive Espace Killy ski area, Val-d’Isère and Tignes are some of the most famous resorts in France, with a formidable reputation for intermediate and advanced skiing. A shuttle bus links the two furthest points at La Daille and La Fornet and is included in your lift pass. But you won’t need to use it – the variety of lifts and cable cars make it easy to access the whole area. Hardened seasonaires even challenge each other to ski all four corners of the map in a single day. Much of the extensive area sits above 2000m, and the Pissaillas glacier atop the Grand Motte offers skiing even in the height of summer, with a funicular and chairlift taking you to a high-point of 3456m.

Val-d’Isère and Tignes are also renowned for their nightlife, which manages to be lively without losing its village ambience, combining busy bars and clubs with quieter piano bars and cocktail lounges.

Stay Here …

The many villages that make up Espace Killy offer more than enough accommodation, but the self-catered ski Chalet Jardin Alpin 3RC is especially noteworthy, offering sleeping space for five in a luxury apartment.

Les Arcs

The most versatile resort on this list, Les Arcs has a variety of runs for powder hounds of all levels – along with some great off-piste skiing. Arcs 1800 is the liveliest area, with lots of bars and restaurants open into the early hours of the morning – but the ski area goes far higher, with more than enough runs above 2000m to ensure good late-season snow coverage. Couple this with some of the best, most high-tech piste-grooming in the business, and Les Arcs is the perfect late-season destination.

Stay Here …

Located right on the slopes, the catered ski Chalet Nature 21 in Arc 1800’s Chantel Area sleeps up to six people in an affordable 50m2 apartment – it’s ideal for those who are keen to get out on the slopes as soon as possible.

Late-Season Perfection

Each of these resorts makes a fabulous choice for late-season skiing. All offer a wide range of accommodation, with beautiful catered and self-catered ski chalets serving as perfect homes-away-from-home. With runs well above 2000m and extensive slopes, you’ll be desperate to try each of these resorts – and to come back again and again!

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Belinda Smythson works for Ski Amis, a specialist ski travel agency and booking service that has been helping avid skiers craft their perfect winter holiday for over a quarter of a century. If you’re looking for the best catered ski chalet accommodation in the Three Valleys, Paradiski, Espace Killy or Chamonix Valley, Ski Amis is the go-to company for winter sports fans searching for the holiday of a lifetime.

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Paradiski may be less well-known than fellow French resorts Val-d’Isère and Val Thorens, but it sits comfortably alongside them as an ideal family-friendly destination. Nestled in the Tarentaise Valley and encompassing La Plagne, Les Arcs and Peisey-Vallandry, Paradiski has a huge variety of slopes, alongside some first-class catered and self-catered ski chalets. Let us fill you in on this season-round winter sports paradise.
La Plagne

Enjoy reliable high-altitude skiing and easily accessible charming villages, all offering catered ski chalets and ski schools perfectly suited for beginners and intermediates alike. And if that’s not enough, the Vanoise Express links La Plagne quickly and easily to Les Arcs, giving you an even bigger area to explore!

Les Arcs

A short funicular ride away from Bourg Saint Maurice station lie the four resorts of Les Arcs – Arcs 1600, Arcs 1800, the new Arcs 1950 and Arcs 2000. More suited to intermediate powder hounds than La Plagne, Les Arcs offers easy access to some challenging off-piste areas as well as plenty of accommodation, including a wide range of self-catered ski chalets. The resort also has a lot for kids to enjoy, including a snow park and racetrack, a good number of blue runs and a wide range of dining options close to your accommodation.

Peisey-Vallandry

Peisey-Vallandry is the most traditional and lowest-lying resort in the Paradiski area, sitting at the foot of the Vanoise Express. Its low altitude makes it ideal for a Christmas break, when higher resorts can suffer from bleak conditions – and the festive period is the perfect time to enjoy its warm atmosphere and cosy catered and self-catered ski chalets! Increasingly popular with families and those just starting to explore the world of skiing, Peisey-Vallandry is the ideal choice for a quiet winter getaway.

A Snowy Paradise For All

With 135 lifts and 425km of pistes, Paradiski is France’s second largest ski area – and it’s increasingly popular for good reason. 70% of the slopes sit above 2000m, so if you don’t fancy a Christmas break, there are more than enough options for the later Easter period.

Over 800 snow machines further ensure that the resort remains skiable late in the season. Increasing investment over the last decade has seen over 300 hectares equipped with snow guns, as well as growing numbers of catered and self-catered ski chalets and a quick and smooth lift system. Whether you want to tackle moguls and glaciers, or if you’re more comfortable on wide, well-maintained blue runs, Paradiski truly has something for everyone. So, what are you waiting for? Book your winter getaway now!

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Belinda Smythson works for Ski Amis, a specialist ski travel agency and booking service that has been helping avid skiers craft their perfect winter holiday for over a quarter of a century. If you’re looking for the best catered ski chalet accommodation in the Three Valleys, Paradiski, Espace Killy or Chamonix Valley, Ski Amis is the go-to company for winter sports fans searching for the holiday of a lifetime.

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